Assistant Professor/Doctor Arrested on Child Porn Charges

Professors and doctors are professionals who often work with children and young adults. These are

A University of Florida assistant professor and physician with UF Health has been arrested following an investigation into alleged child sexual abuse material offenses.

According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began in early April after authorities received a cyber tip alleging that a social media user had shared a video depicting child sexual abuse material.

Investigators traced the account to the suspect and obtained search warrants. During the investigation, detectives say they uncovered evidence indicating that the 40-year-old man possessed child sexual abuse material and engaged in inappropriate online communications with minors through social media platforms.

Authorities executed a search warrant at the suspect’s home in Newberry before making the arrest. The man was booked into the Alachua County Jail on multiple criminal charges, including possession of child sexual abuse material, transmission of child sexual abuse material, and using a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony. He was denied bond.

The sheriff’s office stated that the investigation remains active and that additional charges could be filed. Officials said no further details are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the case.

University records indicate the man served as a nephrologist at UF Health Shands Hospital. University officials said they are cooperating with law enforcement. They have placed the employee on administrative leave and have barred him from all University of Florida property while the investigation is ongoing.

Transmission of Child Sexual Abuse Material in Florida

In Florida, transmission of child sexual abuse material is a serious felony offense. The crime generally involves knowingly sending, distributing, sharing, or transmitting images or videos that depict the sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor through any electronic or digital means.

Under Florida law, a person may be charged if they knowingly:

• Send or transmit child sexual abuse material by text message, email, social media, messaging apps, or other electronic platforms.
• Upload or share CSAM online.
• Forward or distribute files containing CSAM to another person.
• Use a computer, smartphone, or other electronic device to facilitate the transmission of CSAM.

Florida law treats possession and transmission/distribution as separate offenses, meaning someone may face multiple charges if they both possess and share the material.

Contact a Legal Professional for Help

Child porn possession is a serious crime that comes with significant penalties. Most people realize this, but still engage in these and other sex crimes. It can be hard to look away from these images, no matter how immoral or illegal they may be.

A Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit can assess your case and help you get the outcome you desire. We have decades of experience with these and other criminal cases. Fill out the online form or call (352) 505-1799 to schedule a consultation with our office.

Source:

wcjb.com/2026/07/08/uf-health-doctor-arrested-child-porn-charges-alachua-county-deputies-say/